
Research Motivation
College is a period of significant psychological, academic, and social transition. While stress is a common part of undergraduate life, not all students experience or respond to stress in the same way. Prior research suggests that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can heighten vulnerability to stress and influence long-term health outcomes, yet the role these early experiences play in gastrointestinal (GI) health among college students remains underexplored. GI conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and chronic indigestion are often intertwined with psychological distress and can interfere with daily functioning and academic performance. Team GABA’s research is motivated by the need to better understand how stress and childhood adversity interact during the college years to shape both mental and physical well-being, particularly for students who may already face systemic barriers to care and support.
Research Questions
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How do ACEs affect the risk of gastrointestinal issues?
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How does stress affect the gastrointestinal health of college students?
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What are the effects of gastrointestinal issues on academic performance?
ACES + Academic Stress


Brain and Stress Response

GI Symptoms
Our Approach
To capture both the breadth and depth of student experiences, this study uses a mixed-methods design that combines quantitative questionnaires with qualitative interviews. Survey measures assess ACEs, psychological distress, academic stress, GI symptoms, dietary habits, and demographic factors, while interviews provide contextual insight into how students navigate stress, coping strategies, and campus support systems. By integrating these methods, our research aims to identify risk and protective factors that can inform practical, equity-focused recommendations to better support student health and well-being.